Question:
Having a Problem getting a referral from PCP

Hello I went to see my PCP for a referral for surgery. My doctor denied my referral because he said that my problem was that I needed to lose to weight. (he is the kind of doctor who would tell a homeless person that their problem is that they dont have a house)Never mind the fact that according to my insurance I do qualify for the surgery ( I called my insurance company and asked them they said just get your referral from your pcp and you will be all set) but without his referral I will have to pay and I do not have that kind of money I wish I did so I wouldnt have to be going through this right now. I am searching for a new pcp within the oxford network in NYC if anyone could help me out I would greatly appreciate. I feel like I am so close and yet so far away. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!!!!!!    — [Anonymous] (posted on March 15, 2001)

March 15, 2001
That sounds like my OLD PCP. He told me that he didn't believe in weight loss surgery for ANYONE. Funny, I thought my beliefs mattered more when the subject is my body. Anyway, I changed PCPs. I don't live in New York, so I can't refer you to anyone. However, I can tell you that I asked the surgeon's office for a list of PCPs that have made referrals to them for weight loss surgery. Then I picked one of their recommendations. Good luck to you!
   — Karen Z.

March 15, 2001
I agree with Karen's suggestion, in fact, that is exactly what I did to get my referral! I researched surgeon's in my area and called their office to inquire about PCP'S who had referred patients to them in the past. They gave me a few name's and I just picked one! I didn't know one from the other so I thought if that PCP wouldn't give me the referral then I would switch and try the next one. As it turns out, I didn't have to, the PCP gave me the referral with almost no questions asked! Try it, it really works!
   — [Anonymous]